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is the reward.
Here are the must-see highlights when visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina
Kravica Waterfall
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country of mountains and water. Kravica is a remarkable waterfall on the Trebiat River. Its a great spot for a picnic and a swim and is only a short hop from Meugorje, Ljubuki, and apljina. If thats not enough, you can go on a canoe safari on the Trebiat just a few clicks down the road.
Meugorje
A quarter of a century ago, six teenagers walking in the hills surrounding the village of Meugorje had an apparition of the Mother Mary. Despite skepticism from official circles, the visions continued. Meugorje has grown to be the second-largest Catholic pilgrimage site in the world. Millions of the faithful, curious, and even skeptics have visited Meugorje. Believer or not, this holy site is something to experience.
Jahorina
For Olympic-style skiing at truly low prices, nothing beats Jahorina. The lifts are old and some of the hotels are from socialist times but the new infrastructure and well-groomed slopes with no queues represent one of the best (and least publicized) bargains in European skiing.
Lukomir
The mediaeval highland village of Lukomir is the highest (1,469m) and most isolated permanent settlement in the country. Here is a last chance peek at old-world Europe and the way things used to be. Its an amazingly beautiful sight, high on the ridge of Rakitnica Canyonlike traveling to a place time has forgotten.
Blagaj
This is one of the best examples of the way Herzegovinas cultural and natural heritage is interwoven. On a mountaintop in Blagaj are the ruins of an ancient Illyrian fort. The Romans added to the original structure, and by the Middle Ages it had become the castle of the ruling noble family. The Ottomans added yet more to the large fort, and the ruins stand witness to four civilizations that have made Herzegovina their home. The tekija dervish house at the base of a 200-meter rock face at the source of the Buna River is a magical place. Try the fresh trout at Norfish too its the best around.
Turkish coffee, or just strolling through the craftsmens quarters is a pure delight.
Bjelanica Mountain
The highland villages on this range offer an authentic peek into old-world Europe. Traditions dating back hundreds of years can still be found as part of daily life here. The highlanders are extremely friendly and usually make foreign guests rethink the true meaning definition of hospitality. Hiking and walking here is some of the best in the country.
Bosnia and Herzegovina inherited hundreds of kilometers of hiking and walking trails from the former Yugoslavia. This traditional network of trails, dating back to Austro-Hungarian times, has created a magnificent grid of high quality hiking and walking routes.
several other well-trekked areas in the northwest, namely Osjecenica and Pljesevica near Biha, with well-marked trails and spectacular views.
never seen anything like it before. Today day the park offers both a tranquil sanctuary for its numerous fish and bird species as well as adrenalin-fuelled whitewater rafting on the Unas rapids. And if this is not enough, the many stunning spots to hike, walk, bike or fish will surely have you agreeing with our legendary legionnaire
villages on this range offer a true glimpse of old Europe. Traditions and customs dating back centuries can still be found as part of daily life here. The highlanders are extremely friendly and enjoy sharing their unique lifestyle with foreign guests. Hiking from village to village through the highland landscapes is nothing short of a mystical journey.
Bjelasnica Mountain
Was home to the 1984 Winter Olympics, and is now proposed as a National Park. While the Park is only in the planning stages, this area still offers some of the most varied mountain tourism in the country. Bjelasnica and Igman are both Olympic ski centers. The highland
Mountain Biking
Ride Free!
Although the terrain is perfectly suited for mountain biking and road biking, very few locals have taken up the sport. Thats good news for visitors youll have the best trails to yourself! Mountain biking is offered on Bjelanica, Igman and Visoica mountains and also in the beautiful and wild northwest. For road biking the narrow roads are not ideal, but places like Livno, Kupres, and Glamoki Fields in western Bosnia have magnificent terrain for long valley biking with relatively little traffic.
Due to the increasing popularity of mountain biking, most countries have strict regulations and charges. Mountain biking in BIH is a relatively new sport. This has Its advantages we have thousands of kilometers of excellent trails where mountain bikers can ride free! Most trails are ancient highland caravan routes that connect mountain communities, offering not only challenging routes but well kept ones as well.
Rafting
Whitewater Adventures
The Four Rivers
Bosnia and Herzegovina is well known for its whitewater rafting adventures with four beautiful whitewater rivers that offer professionally guided rafting tours. The Four Rivers - Neretva, Vrbas, Una and Tara - rank among Europes best for class II-IV rafting. Each river will pleasantly surprise you with its unforgettable landscapes. All of rivers have operators certified by the International Rafting Federation, and some of these are mentioned in our preferred partner section.
Una River
The Una is the pearl of the Northwest Frontier region of BiH. From beginners to professionals, the Una offers rafting and kayaking for hardcore rafters and novices alike. The Una is famous for its waterfalls and crystal cascades, mesmerizing first-time visitors with its beauty. The Una River is a vital lifeline for the communities of the Krajina and is treated like a member of the family. There are several professional rafting operators that provide fun and safe guided rafting for all ages and abilities. (Rafting trip 3-7 hours / Class ~ IV) (Rafting trip 2-3.5 hours I Class: II-IV).
Neretva River
The emerald of Herzegovina, this wild river flows over 200 kilometers into the Adriatic Sea from the high mountains of the Central Dinaric Alps. The upper canyon is blessed with some of the most breathtaking views in all of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Deep canyon walls, endemic pine trees and flowers, and crystal clear water will carry you down this class IIIII river. Rafting trips on the Neretva are offered by several certified rafting operators, which are based in the northern town of Konjic just one hour from both Sarajevo and Mostar. (Rafting trip: 4-6 hours / Class I-III)
Vrbas River
Just a few clicks from Banja Luka, Bosnias second largest city, is the inspirational canyon of the Vrbas River. In 2010 the Vrbas hosted the World Rafting Championships, bringing together the worlds finest rafters. Although the Vrbas course is shorter than the other rivers, it provides adrenaline-packed rapids for those looking for the ultimate rafting challenge. By day you ride the rapids, by night enjoy Banja Lukas great nightlife and cafe culture. (Rafting trip: 2-3.5 hours / Class II-IV)
Tara River
A jewel amongst the worlds natural heritage spots, the Tara boasts the largest canyon in Europe. The river, which borders Montenegro, is 140 kilometers of natural wonder. Youll find the 1,300-meter canyon has created some of the best rafting and kayaking in Europe. This oasis and protected area has a long tradition of extreme water sport activities and easy family outings that can accommodate a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. (Rafting trip: 3.5 hours - 3 days / Class II-IV)
Rock Climbing
The finest undiscovered rock climbing in Europe
Bosnia and Herzegovina is an ideal place for free climbers and offers a superb choice of routes. From the challenging 1,300-meter rock face of Veliki Kuk on Cvrsnica to the spectacular rocks of Vrt Ciklama overlooking the Neretva river, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers some of the finest undiscovered rock climbing in Europe. Professional Instructors, rock climbing and climbing guides will help you explore some of these popular mountain and rock climbing areas throughout the country. For those interested in pushing themselves to the limit, make sure you tackle our big walls: Osobac (600m), Izgorjela Gruda (450m), Otis (200m) and many others.
Fly fishing
Pure, spring fed waters
Youd have to be a pretty poor fisherman not to hook at least a few freshwater fish in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our rivers and lakes are teeming with trout, carp, bass and many other species; and good fishing can be found in most parts of the country. You can find some fishing shops but serious gear is hard to come by, so its best to bring your own kit if youre planning a solo trip. However, organized fishing groups will more than likely provide the poles and gear for you.
Some of the best fishing rivers are the Pliva near Sipovo and Jajce, the Upper Drina, and the Neretva River. These rivers have a well-deserved reputation as some of Europes best for fly fishing. All are easily accessible from excellent paved roads. The waters offer plenty of large and healthy fish that may be caught by the sports angler. The sports angler may pursue streamside fishing by either spin casting or fly fishing, or more leisurely boat fishing on the lakes.
Diving
Speed River and Cave Diving
If whitewater rafting is the ultimate watersport adventure on the surface, then speed river diving is definitely its underwater equivalent. This activity was born and named in Biha, and it has already attracted fans and adrenaline addicts from across Europe. Speed river diving is scuba diving in the wild river, full of excitement and a thrilling encounter with underwater currents and obstacles.
Cave-diving expeditions can also be taken to explore the hidden splendors of our country. Beautiful natural springs with even more awe-inspiring caves are a fascinating phenomenon in this part of the world. Standby for more adventures. Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to an even greater number of unsearched locations, which will be the focus of international cavediving expeditions in the future.
Members
Highlander is a rafting and mountain club based in the eastern Bosnian town of Foca. The Highlander team offers a wide range of nature adventures, from rafting the Tara River in BiH and Montenegro to mountain trips in Sutjeska and Durmitor National Parks. Highlander has a large team of seasoned guides and offers a unique camping experience on the Tara River, deep in the canyon for a true grassroots nature experience. The eastern Bosnia region is a nature lovers paradise, with thousands of square kilometers of some of Europes most impressive wilderness. Contact details: Mojkovacka bb 73300 Foca, BiH T +387(0) 58/213-225 M +387(0)65/475-201. E highlandertim@hotmail.com www.highlandertim.com
all necessary safety equipment. Youll also enjoy a delicious lunch in the canyon or at the restaurant upon completion of your rafting journey your choice! Europe Rafting also has a campground should you care to stay the night. We have been guiding people down this crystal-clear river for over 30 years and invite you to join us on a rafting adventure you wont forget. Contact details: Kolonija 16, Konjic 88400 T +387 (0) 36 723 322, +387 (0) 61 817 209 +387 (0) 61264 996 E info@raftingeurope.com www.raftingeurope.com
Green Visions is BiHs leading eco tourism and environmental group based in Sarajevo. Much of its activities are focused on the central Dinaric Alps. This company has pioneered the responsible tourism movement in the country and is dedicated to promoting and preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the highland areas. Green Visions has an international team that speaks Bosnian, English, Dutch, Italian and French, and has a great network of seasoned guides. Green Visions specializes in mountain walks and hikes, ranging from a relaxed day trip to a 10-day tour of the most amazing terrain in southeast Europe. Accommodation is usually in the homes of the villagers or in mountain lodges in the highland regions. Meals are the traditional, organic foods from the highlanders themselves. If youre looking for something authentic, with a true flavor of the country, Green Visions is what youre looking for. Contact details: Radnicka bb, Sarajevo 71000 +387 (0) 33 717 290 +387 (0) 61 213278 sarajevo@greenvisions.ba www.sarajevo-travel.ba www.greenvisions.ba
Guideline d.o.o. is located in Banja Luka in the North West of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This team of professionals offers rafting adventures on the Vrbas River, canyoning, hiking, team building and biking trips throughout the region. Contact details: Kralja Petra I Karaorevia 7, 78 000 Banja Luka T +387 - (0) 51 212-600 F +387 - (0) 51 212-600 M +387 - (0) 65 882-085 E info@guidelinebl.com mailto:info@guidelinebl.com www.guidelinebl.com
Rafting Europe is one of two rafting agencies that have international certification on the Neretva River. This seasoned team provides a full range of services for day rafting. They serve breakfast in Konjic, provide transport to the launch site for your rafting ride and offer a professionally guided raft trip with
divers (regulator, octopussy, manometer, BCD, etc), plus a selection of scuba diving suits and ABC equipment. Contact details: Bosanska 22, 77000 Biha Extreme Sports Club Limit provides safe and fun guiding services to visitors in the Biha and wider region. Their focus is on hiking, biking, canyoning and rock climbing. The club is run by Ermin Lipovic a mountaineer with over 20 years of experience. He is a fully registered Alpine climber with numerous expeditions under his belt. Besides organizing walking and hiking trips, Limit offers exciting road and mountain biking trips. Limit was the first to organize downhill mountain biking races on the slopes of the Pljesevica mountain range. The race has now grown into a yearly event attracting participants from over 15 countries. Limit works closely together with Kiro rafting to provide multi-activity programs, including rafting on the River Una, canyoning in the Unica canyon, biking through the rolling hills of Biha and walking in Kozara National Park and other mountain ranges in the region. For more information on what to do in the Biha region and how to obtain a set of colorful hiking and cycling maps of the region contact Limit. Contact details: Ermin Lipovic Dania mahala 7, Biha 77000 T +387 61 144 248 E lipa3@bih.net.ba www.limit.co.ba Ciklo Centar MTB Tours specializes in organizing mountain biking tours. Every tour takes place in carefully selected areas and is guided by experienced and well-trained leaders. Trips are accompanied by vehicles and equipped top quality equipment. We are constantly expanding our offer with new trails, and gladly share our knowledge and enthusiasm with our guests. We pay special attention to safety. Part of our vision is to also develop thousands of kilometers of epic trails, making Bosnia and Herzegovina one of the hottest mountain bike destinations. Contact details: Hamze Celenke 58, llidza T/F +387 (0) 33 625 243 M +387 (0) 61 259 965 E nino@ciklocentar.com www.ciklocentar.com T +387 61463 355 E info@una-aquarius.org www.una-aquarius.org
UNA
KIRO RAFTING
RC
country skiing, canyoning, hiking, ice and winter climbing. Scorpio is based in Zenica where it operates its own outdoors centre with a 15-meter climbing wall and many outdoors attractions. The center serves as a base and starting point for its adventure holidays. Scorpio regularly organizes multi-activity adventure holidays, combining culture, sport and adventure in the cities and mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Contact details: Nurije Pozderca 11, Zenica, T +387 61 608130 / +387 61 788105 E info@scorpio.ba www.scorpio.ba
Una RC Kiro Rafting is a professional rafting and kayaking operator located in Golubic, just five km upstream from Biha. Our professional certified skippers are among the best in the region to take you through the 24-meter Strbacki waterfalls and the equally impressive Grand Canyon. Una Kiro Rafting also offers camping space with two modern guesthouses, picnic grounds, table tennis and volleyball fields on the sandy banks of the Una. Other activities are available, including fishing, kayaks and canoes. Contact details: Ulica Golubic bb, 77000 Biha T +387 (0) 37361110 / +387 (0) 61192 338 E extreme@una-kiro-rafting.com www.una-kiro-rafting.com
Scuba Diving center Una-Aquarius was established in 2003 by a group of experienced divers with expertise in diving in extreme conditions, rapid waters and caves. They combined their diving knowledge as well as long-standing experience in tourism to create a unique diving destination. The Center and diving bases are open from the beginning of May until the end of October. Una Aquarius owns its own air compressors and 20 scuba diving tanks with capacity of 10, 12 and 15 liters. In addition the Center has 10 standard scuba outfits for sports
The Extreme Sports Club Scorpio is a specialised outdoors and adventure company with a pool of qualified mountaineering and ski Instructors who have more than 30 years of experience in the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Edin Durmo and his team offer a unique combination of sports: rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, back
Zepter Passport , a member of the large Zepter International family, has been operating as a full service travel agency in Banja Luka since 1999. Zepter Passport provides its clients with airline tickets, hotel accommodation reservations, excursions and theme trips, not to mention our famous fly fishing trips. We offer a packages on seven rivers : Una, Unac, Sanica, Pliva, Ribnik, Krusnica and Neretva. All these rivers are rich in grayling, brown trout, rainbow trout and the beautiful and little known species of softmouth trout (in the Neretva). We hope you will join us for a fishing adventure to remember! Contact details: Veselina Maslese 8/I, Banjaluka T +387 66 702 037, Fax +387 51 229 852 E milan@zepterpassport.com, milan@zepterpassportflyfishing www.zepterpassportflyfishing.com
country either. Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) can only be entered with a valid passport and in some cases with a valid Identity card. Please check for the latest requirements with your Ministry of Foreign Affairs or BiH Embassy. Visas are Issued by BiHs diplomatic missions. Visas for private travel require an application form and a certified Letter of Intent from a BiH citizen. Business visas require an application form, an invitation from a BIH business partner and a certified Letter of Intent from the BiH trade office. Registration is obligatory within 24 hours of arrival In BiH.
NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
Independence Day March 1. Labour Day May 1 Catholic Christmas December 25 Orthodox Christmas January 7 Catholic New Year January 1 Orthodox New Year January 14 Bajram (Muslim Holy Day) this date is related to moon cycles and changes every year.
It Is not uncommon to see a bear, or occasionally a wolf, in Sutjeska National Park in eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina. Wild goats are mainly found in Herzegovinas Neretva Valley, but are also found in Sutjeska National Park and on the southern slopes of Bjelminica and Visocica Mountains. There is a plethora of birds as well. Hutovo Blato is the largest bird migration center in southeast Europe. In these marshy wetlands in southern Herzegovina you can find 240 species, many of them on a migration path between Europe and North Africa. Heron, Greek partridge, coot, owls, pheasants, and wild duck permanently make their home here. Fish are abundant in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Most of the freshwater rivers are teeming with trout, carp, grayling and bass.
FACTS
Location: Southeast Europe, borders with Croatia (932km), Serbia (312km) and Montenegro (215km). Land area: 51,129km2. Language: Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian. Population: 3.8 million. Religion: Muslim (44%), Orthodox Christian (32%), Roman Catholic (17%), Others (7%). Capital: Sarajevo (population 400,000). Other major cities and towns: Banja Luka, Tuzla, Zenlca, Mostar, and Biha. Highest point: Maglic Mountain (2,386m). Time: CET (GMT + 1 hour). Currency: KM (convertible mark). International telephone code: +387
winters. In the inland areas the weather Is similar to that of central Europe with hot summers, cool springs and autumns, and cold winters with considerable snowfall. The Mediterranean and Continental climates meet in the middle, creating eco systems that can be found nowhere else. The Alpine climate rules the mountain terrains of the high Dinarics above 1,700 meters. Winters are very cold with considerable snow cover In the north.
LITERATURE
Bradt Travel Guide to Bosnia and Herzegovina, by Tim Clancy Forgotten Beauties (mountain guide), by Matias Gomes Journey through Herzegovina, Buybook Publishing, Sarajevo Journey through Sarajevo, Buybook Publishing, Sarajevo Journey through Central and North Bosnia, Buybook Publishing, Sarajevo
Impressum
ATA BiH can assume no responsibility for any possible errors or misprints. Concept and design by: www.thedispensary.co.nz Printed in Bosnia and Herzegovina by: CPU Sarajevo Photographs provided by: Aleksandar Pastir, Ermin Lipovic, Samir Krivic, Brett Koramivic, Samer Hajric, Munever Salihovic, Zoran Stanojevic, Hajrudin Klipo, Green Visions, RC Una-Kiro rafting, EVRON, Samir Arnautovic. The printing of this brochure is made possible by the support of the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Swedish International Development Agency (Sida). The contents of this brochure are the sole responsibility of ATA BiH and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID, Sida or the United States and the Swedish Governments.
CLIMATE
Mediterranean and Alpine influences create a mosaic of climate types within a relatively small area. The south enjoys warm, sunny and dry weather with mild
VISAS
EU members are exempt from visa requirements and may enter BiH at any time. American and Canadian citizens are not required to have visas for entry to the